TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Minister Susi Pudjiastuti asserted that the Natuna Sea is important for the development of the maritime and fishery sector in Indonesia.
“Natuna is vital for Indonesia’s sea sovereignty. Our victory in Natuna is important for the unity and sovereignty of Indonesia,” said the Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Susi Pudjiastuti in Jakarta on Wednesday, August 9.
Read more: Minister Susi: We Will Keep Name of North Natuna Sea
Susi explained that the development of the Integrated Maritime and Fishery Center (SKPT) in Natuna is almost complete. She expects that the SKPT will be inaugurated in October or November.
According to Susi, the next challenge is to attract national fish catching vessels to go to Natuna. Therefore, the minister suggested the government build facilities and infrastructures that can accommodate vessels from other regions, including cold storages and fish markets.
“However, we also need to protect the Natuna people, by drafting a regulation banning fish catching activities near islands,” she added.
Minister Susi Pudjiastuti hopes that the SKPT development will improve the economy in Natuna. The government will also build similar centers in several outer islands, such as Tahuna, Saumlaki, and Merauke.
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